Crimes and complaints involving flags (FOI)

​​​Request

I am writing to request the following information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

A.

For each year from 2000 to date, how many crimes did you record involving damage to, or destruction of, flags?

B.

For each year from 2000 to date, how many crimes did you record involving theft of flags?

C.

For each year from 2000 to date, how many complaints did you receive involving alleged inappropriate use of flags?

D.

 In relation to 3: how many of these complaints resulted in a caution or prosecution (of which how many were successful)?

E.

For each year from 2000 to date, how many times were you called upon to investigate the display of a flag in public in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that an individual was a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation (Terrorism Act 2000 / Section 13).

F.  

In relation to E: which flags?

G.

In relation to E: how many of these investigations resulted in a caution or prosecution (of which how many were successful)?

H.

In relation to E: in each case did you seek expert vexillological advice? If so, from whom?

I.

Do you currently have a policy of seeking expert vexillological advice when dealing with an incident or crime relating to flags?

J.

In relation to I: if yes, please provide a copy of this policy.

Clarification: 'Vexillological' means 'pertaining to flags'

I am interested in any information held by you regarding my request. I understand that under the Act, I do not have to specify particular files or documents and that it is your department's responsibility to provide the information I require. If you need further clarification, please contact me by email.

I would like to receive the information in electronic format, though I am content to receive hard copies by mail if this is more convenient for you.

If my request is denied in whole or part, I ask that you cite one of the Freedom of Information Act exemptions for each piece of information you refuse to release. I would also expect you to release all non-exempt material. I reserve the right to appeal your decision to withhold any information or to charge excessive fees.

I should be entitled to a response within 20 working days. I would be grateful if you could confirm in writing that you have received this request. I look forward to hearing from you.

Response

A.

Apart from flags on golf courses marking the holes, zero.

B.

2000 Unknown
2001 Unknown
2002 Five
2003 One
2004 Six
2005 Zero
2006 Three
2007 Two
2008 One
2009 Three
2010 Zero
2011 Zero
2012 Zero
2013 One
2014 Two
The football World Cup and European Championship years of 2002, 2004, 2006 and 2008 produce the most flag crime, usually between rival supporter groups.

C.

Zero

D.

Zero

E.

Zero

F. G. and H.

Not applicable.

I. 

No

J.

Not applicable.